Missouri lawmakers to consider legalizing medical marijuana

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Missouri Governor Jay Nixon told a national audience that the legislature would consider medical marijuana, but his words were met with mixed reaction here in Kansas City.

On Sunday morning's CNN show State of the Union, Nixon said the bridge isn't yet built for decriminalization, but lawmakers are open to medical marijuana.

"Medicinally I think folks are beginning to see there are things the medical community can help on," Nixon said, "our legislature might consider that."

"It is a step in the right direction, I'll take it as a green light," said Amber Iris Langston with Show Me Cannabis, an organization promoting marijuana legalization. "I don't think Governor Nixon takes chances with his political support, so it's a strong indication there's support for medical marijuana in Missouri."

While she's pleased to see Nixon talking about medical marijuana, she'd also like to see support of bills that would decriminalize pot. Missouri has some of the toughest marijuana laws in the country, getting caught with a single gram could mean a year in jail.

"It's a shame our politicians don't have courage to stand forward on this issue and say this policy isn't working, this policy is destructive to people in our communities," she said.

Missouri lawmakers have introduced three bills this year: one for a medical marijuana pilot program, one legalizing recreational pot, and one that reduces penalties for possession.

Jennifer Feece

I have adhd&anxiety, I have always been anti drugs. But whats adderal xanax klonopin etc.. DRUGS chemicals! Weed is a plant. Later I was raped and developed horrible ptsd that later caused me to have seizures from anxiety. A friend suggested I try, I declined. Then I am taking 5 2mg of xanax a day and still anxious. So I gave in! I feel like me!! I am relaxed, efficient, just all around at peace no medicine needed. I beg you to legalize this, like any “drug” it can be abused. I only agree with medical and a thorough assessment done. But it would help me so much and be a lot healthier.